Pop The Cause voting underway

Rockport — The four local nonprofits that will benefit from June 26’s Pop The Cause party are United Mid-Coast Charities, Knox County Meals on Wheels, Coastal Opportunities and Hospitality House.

“The selection process was extremely difficult as there are so many deserving organizations in our area,” said Cellardoor Winery’s Bettina Doulton, who presents the very popular annual fundraiser party in partnership with Lani Stiles of Megunticook Market.

“We were drawn to these four organizations because they work directly in our towns to improve the lives of our neighbors,” said Stiles. “We’re excited that Pop The Cause will provide a way for everyone who attends to give directly back to this community.”

Previously called Pop The Cork, the annual gala was begun in 2008 as a festive way to support local nonprofits. Past beneficiaries are the Farnsworth Art Museum, the Center for Maine Contemporary Art, Bay Chamber Concerts, United Mid-Coast Charities, Midcoast Habitat for Humanity and Penobscot Bay YMCA.

This year’s Pop The Cause will donate $160,000 divided between the four selected nonprofits; one will receive $100,000, with $20,000 each going to the other three. The donations will be awarded at the event, which has been sold out for months. Public vote will decide which beneficiary gets the larger amount. Voting is open until May 31 at popforchange.com.

Since time is as precious as money to these organizations, Doulton and Stiles invite local community members to give some of their own by volunteering four hours to one of the selected beneficiaries. As a “thank you” for giving back, volunteers will be invited to Pop For Change, an evening of community, live music, food, wine and more, set for Saturday, June 28. To earn a ticket, volunteer hours must be completed by May 31. Tickets for Pop For Change are not for sale; the only way to get one is to volunteer. For more information, visit the website or call 763-4478.